16 coaches lose jobs after the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup has proven to be a catalyst for significant coaching changes, with 16 managers losing their positions by Tuesday, July 21. These departures stem from a variety of reasons, including resignations, firings, and contracts that were not renewed.

Rudi García's exit as Belgium's coach marks the latest addition to this extensive list. His 18-month tenure concluded after Belgium reached the quarterfinals, where they were eliminated by eventual champions Spain. García stated he is leaving Belgium in League A of the Nations League and highlighted his efforts in renewing the team's roster, wishing success to the next generation.

The exodus of coaches began early in the tournament. Sabri Lamouchi was the first to go, dismissed after Tunisia's heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening match. Following Tunisia's early exit, Miroslav Koubek, Steve Clarke, Hong Myung-bo, and Marcelo Bielsa also stepped down from their respective national teams.

Further departures include Sebastián Beccacece (Ecuador), Ronald Koeman (Netherlands), and Julian Nagelsmann (Germany), all of whom concluded their tenures after their teams were eliminated in the round of 16. The same round marked the end of Zlatko Dalić's time with Croatia and Pape Thiaw's with Senegal, with Thiaw being dismissed after Senegal's loss to Belgium. Javier Aguirre also left the Mexican national team after the round of 16, though his departure was pre-arranged. Carlos Queiroz (Ghana) and Roberto Martínez (Portugal) also ended their projects after failing to meet sporting objectives. Jamal Sellami's contract with Jordan was rescinded by the federation following their group stage elimination, reportedly by mutual agreement.

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I am leaving Belgium in the League A of the Nations League and I value having promoted the renewal process of the team. I wish success to the new generation that will continue the project.